Large White

Special features: The UK population is swelled each year by swarms of large whites arriving from Europe.

The caterpillars feed on brassicas. The leaves of these plants contain high concentrations of 'sinigrin' or mustard oil. These toxic oils accumulate in the caterpillars body and deter predators from eating them.

Latin name: Pieris brassicae

Size: Wingspan approximately 65mms.

Distribution: Found throughout the UK.

Months seen: May to October.

Food: Nectar. The caterpillars feed on brassicas and cabbage.

Habitat: Meadows, hedgerows, downs and wasteland.